Navigate intricate labyrinths and manipulate the very platforms beneath your feet. Upgrade your arsenal and gear to better confront the dangers that await. Bear in mind that the most direct route isn’t always the optimal one; strategically utilize the platforms to gain a tactical advantage over your adversaries.
Loot River employs a top-down perspective, which contributes to its accessibility. The core mechanic of manipulating platforms while simultaneously controlling your character offers a unique gameplay experience, seldom seen in similar titles. The developer aptly describes the game as a “Roguelike Tetris with (Dark) Souls difficulty.” For example, players can charge an attack, engage in combat, and then retreat by moving the platform, effectively creating distance from enemies. Strategic thinking is crucial, as players will frequently find themselves in precarious situations.
The game’s visuals are presented in a charming retro style, complete with animations reminiscent of the era. The deliberate use of gore and violence complements the retro aesthetic effectively. The well-crafted music and sound design contribute to a compelling and immersive atmosphere.
However, Loot River‘s gameplay mechanics can, at times, lead to frustration. Targeting enemies approaching from multiple directions can be challenging, and attacks often feel either underpowered or overly slow. While dodging is possible, evading simultaneous attacks from numerous enemies can prove difficult to execute effectively.
Another source of potential frustration is the significant distance between checkpoints. Early in the game, progress can feel substantial, only to be reset entirely upon death, forcing players to replay from the very beginning. While some players appreciate the demanding difficulty characteristic of Souls-like games, others may find it tedious and discouraging.
In conclusion, Loot River presents a retro-stylized aesthetic and an intriguing core concept. However, the occasionally cumbersome combat mechanics and the extended distance between checkpoints ultimately result in a middling score, despite acknowledging the innovative approach from the Slovakian indie studio and the contributions from the team behind SUPERHOT.
SUPERHOT PRESENTS provided a game code for this review.
